Colombia is grappling with a surge of violence as armed groups continue to wreak havoc across the nation, prompting an increased military and police presence. Fighting recently erupted in the Amazon rainforest, resulting in the tragic loss of 20 lives. Meanwhile, the National Liberation Army (ELN) has imposed a strict lockdown on thousands of residents in the Chocó region along the Pacific coast, further heightening tensions. President Gustavo Petro's attempts to establish peace through dialogue with these armed factions have faced significant setbacks.
In northern Colombia, Project Hope reports that 122,000 individuals urgently need assistance due to escalating violence. A recent skirmish between the Colombian army and combatants left at least six people injured. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, with more displacements occurring this year than in the entire previous year.
The situation in Cúcuta is particularly dire. The mayor has enforced a 48-hour curfew for its 1 million residents following attacks by ELN combatants on police stations using assault rifles and grenades. Toll booths have suffered destruction from car bombs. The city's strategic location on the border with Venezuela has made it a hotspot for illegal activities, with approximately 25 groups competing for control over cocaine trafficking and contraband.
“We cannot allow these terrorist actions to hold Cúcuta hostage,” – Jorge Acevedo, the city’s mayor.
The resurgence of violence highlights the challenges facing Colombia. Despite the historic peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in 2016, which ended six decades of war, the number of armed factions has increased from 141 in 2022 to 184 in 2024, according to Colombia's rights ombudsman.
The relentless violence has left residents in a state of fear and uncertainty. Beatriz Carvajal, a teacher in Cúcuta, captures the atmosphere of anxiety prevalent among citizens.
“It’s very tense. The police and military are on every corner and everyone is in a state of panic because we are all wondering where they are going to bomb next,” – Beatriz Carvajal, a 50-year-old teacher.
Project Hope's program director, Mónica Hoyos, underscores the severity of the situation:
“Violence has been relentless and the humanitarian crisis has reached catastrophic levels,” – Mónica Hoyos, Project Hope’s program director in Colombia.